HEARTFELT tributes have been paid to a young footballer who has died.
Preston Park player Warren Betany died at the weekend. He was only 20.
The Sunday league side revealed the French midfielder's death in an emotional Instagram post.
Writing on Instagram, a spokesman for Preston Park FC said: “Only a few hours ago we sadly found out one of our players, Warren, passed away at the weekend.
“He has been a big part of our squad this season. He will be greatly missed and remain in our thoughts.”
The cause of death has not yet been confirmed and it has been reported to Brighton and Hove coroner's office.
The post was met with heartfelt messages from across the grassroots football community.
Dozens of people have commented paying their respects to Warren and sending messages of support to his family.
While there have been tributes from football clubs from across Sussex including Saltdean Tigers, Whitehawk United and Sussex Dynamos.
A minute’s silence will be held before Preston Park’s game against Brighton Boys Brigade Old Boys (BBOB) at Victoria Recreation Ground in Portslade on Saturday.
And there are calls for all twelve teams in the Brighton and Worthing District Football League to follow suit.
Preston Park players will also wear black armbands for the rest of their league games this season, and in all cup games.
A spokesman for the Sussex Sunday football league also paid tribute to the young sportsman.
He said: “Condolences to Preston Park FC and Warren’s family.
"A tragic loss of such a young life.”
Warren made his first appearance for Preston Park on July, 31 2021, in a pre-season friendly against South Coast Athletico.
During his time at the club, Warren made thirteen appearances and was in the staring line-up for seven games
He scored two goals and made one assist.
In a matchday programme issued during Preston’s game against BBOB in September last year, Warren wrote that playing for the club was a pleasure.
He said: “At every meeting the group gets along particularly well and I quickly felt integrated with the team and the coach.
“The good thing about this group is everyone is willing to work hard but doesn’t stop us having fun.
“The coming season promises to be exciting.”
Warren, who was also studying law with business at the University of Brighton, enjoyed six wins with the club, helping to keep three clean sheets.
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